Energy leaders discuss investment, regional cooperation and infrastructure to support Asia’s evolving energy systems.
The Singapore International Energy Week (SIEW) 2026 opened with discussions on energy security, infrastructure investment and regional connectivity, as government officials and industry leaders examined ways to meet growing electricity demand and support the energy transition. At the Singapore Energy Lecture, H.E. Dr Tan See Leng, Minister for Energy, Trade and Industry (Energy and Industry), outlined five priorities for Singapore’s energy future: Confidence, Competitiveness, Carbon, Connectivity and Cost.
Held under the theme “Connecting Energy Systems, Powering Tomorrow”, SIEW 2026 featured ministerial dialogues, keynote addresses and industry discussions on the future of global and regional energy systems. Participants examined energy diversification, electricity grid development, natural gas, nuclear power and financing for infrastructure projects.
During the SIEW Summit, H.E. Eng. Salim Bin Nasser Al Aufi, Minister of Energy and Minerals, Oman, emphasised the importance of open markets and continued energy trade amid geopolitical tensions. Dr Fatih Birol, Executive Director of the International Energy Agency (IEA), highlighted the need to diversify energy sources, suppliers and trade routes. He also identified the ASEAN Power Grid as an important regional priority for energy security and decarbonisation.
Regional integration featured prominently in discussions involving ASEAN and energy industry representatives. H.E. Dr Kao Kim Hourn, Secretary-General of ASEAN, outlined priorities including energy security preparedness, development of the ASEAN Power Grid and financing for cross-border infrastructure. Speakers from China Huaneng Group and China Southern Power Grid also discussed low-carbon technologies, integrated electricity markets and digital solutions for grid resilience.
Financing was another key topic at SIEW Summit Session 5, “Financing Tomorrow’s Energy World”. Government, financial and industry representatives discussed policy certainty, project preparation, risk allocation and governance as factors affecting investment in energy infrastructure. The discussion also addressed blended finance, advanced nuclear technologies and the need for grid investment to keep pace with electricity demand from artificial intelligence, data centres and advanced manufacturing.
Other sessions examined the evolving role of natural gas as renewable energy deployment increases, nuclear power’s potential contribution to low-carbon electricity generation, and the infrastructure required for reliable and affordable power. Speakers highlighted the importance of regulatory frameworks, skilled workforces and cross-border electricity trade.
SIEW 2026 continued with further discussions on regional energy cooperation, infrastructure development and investment, providing a platform for policymakers and industry representatives to exchange perspectives on the future of energy systems.
Source: Singapore International Energy Week
